Thanks for the replies,

I'm sticking with the $5.99 bushings, will buy quality gas shocks and I have a buddy to press the bushings.

I am doing ball joints also although they are still good, the grease cups are blown out and it makes sense with it all apart.

Although I can see the need for more stopping power, I considered disc brakes but it seemed a bit aggressive for me at this point with new lines and power booster etc.

The only error I made was not removing the shock completely, instead leaving it attached at the lower beacuse of the difficulty in getting a backup wrench on the bolts.

The other side should go a lot easier.

Bert